Can You Get a Tax Refund as an International Student? Here’s What to Know
If you’re studying in the U.S. on an F-1 visa, you might assume taxes are just another thing to file and forget, but you could actually be owed money. Many international students qualify for a tax refund, especially if they worked on campus or received a taxable scholarship.
This guide breaks down when refunds apply, what forms you need and how to claim the money you’re owed.
Do international students pay U.S. taxes?
Yes. As an F-1 student, you’re considered a nonresident for tax purposes during your first five years in the U.S. That means you must file a tax return every year, even if you didn’t earn income.
There are two main categories:
- No income: You must fileForm 8843.
- With income: You must file Form 8843 and Form 1040-NR.
If you worked on campus, received curricular practical training (CPT) or optional practical training (OPT) wages or got a scholarship that covered non-tuition costs (like room and board), you may have had taxes withheld. That’s where a refund could come in. Being prepared for taxes is important for study abroad budgeting.
When are international students eligible for a tax refund?
You might qualify for a refund if:
- You had income taxes withheld from your paycheck or stipend
- You received a taxable scholarship with too much tax taken out
- You earned less than the taxable threshold for nonresidents
- You overpaid due to an incorrect withholding rate
- Your country has a tax treaty with the U.S. that exempts part of your income
Even if you only worked a part-time campus job or received a one-time grant, filing your taxes can help you recover money you didn’t need to pay. Students also need to consider whether they need work permits for international students.
What documents do you need to file?
Before filing your return, gather:
- Form W-2 from your on-campus job
- Form 1042-S if you received taxable scholarships or fellowship payments
- Form 1099 for any contract work (only if legally authorized)
- Passport, visa, I-94 and I-20
- Social Security number or ITIN, if you have one
You’ll also need to download Form 8843 and Form 1040-NR, or use a nonresident tax software like Sprintax.
How do you claim a refund?
Follow these steps:
- Fill out the correct forms.
Nonresidents must use Form 1040-NR to request a refund. Do not use the regular 1040.
- Include any tax treaty benefits.
If your country has a tax treaty with the U.S., you may be able to exclude some income. The tax software will walk you through this.
- E-file or mail your return.
Some services allow nonresidents to e-file, while others require mailing to the IRS.
- Wait for your refund.
Refunds typically arrive within six to 12 weeks, depending on how you filed and whether you requested direct deposit.
If you don’t have an SSN or ITIN yet, you can apply for an ITIN using Form W-7 with your tax return.
How much could your refund be?
Refund amounts vary. Some students receive just a few dollars, while others get several hundred back, especially if they worked multiple semesters or didn’t claim tax treaty benefits earlier.
It depends on:
- How much was withheld from your pay
- Whether your income was under the taxable threshold
- If your tax treaty offers exemptions
If you’re unsure whether it’s worth filing, keep in mind that even a small refund is money you can use for books, groceries or savings.
Avoid these common mistakes
- Filing the wrong form (like 1040 instead of 1040-NR)
- Forgetting to submit Form 8843
- Claiming credits only available to U.S. residents
- Not reporting all income sources
- Waiting until the last minute to file
Filing the right way ensures your visa status stays in good standing and avoids problems with future immigration or work authorizations.
How MPOWER Financing supports international students financially
Many international students rely on part-time jobs or scholarships to make ends meet, and those can trigger tax filings. MPOWER Financing helps reduce that burden with no-cosigner student loans that cover tuition and living costs.
An MPOWER loan can help you:
- Reduce the need to work during the semester
- Focus on your studies without the added stress of part-time income and tax paperwork
- Get through tax season with less financial stress
MPOWER loans and aid for international students are available to F-1 and DACA students at approved universities across the U.S. and Canada. You can apply online and use the funds to cover your education while staying compliant with all visa requirements.
A little paperwork can mean a lot of payback
Even if your income was low, filing a U.S. tax return could lead to money back in your account. Every dollar helps when you’re living on a student budget, and the process is easier than it seems with the right tools and support.
Stay organized, file on time and don’t miss your chance to claim what’s yours.
